The Setup
Worldwide Films was the biggest of the big, the grandest of the grand. But the era of dream factories has gone, replaced by the era of quick-bucks real estate. It’s time to sell the studio, parcel by parcel. Not so fast, a mysterious someone says – someone who has secretly lived amid the sets and soundstages for decades, someone who will kill to preserve his backlot home.

Director: Gene Levitt
Writers: George Schenck, Robert Thom
Stars: Skye Aubrey, Jack Cassidy and Jackie Coogan

This made-for-tv film isn't really much different than the direct-to-dvd horror/thriller releases of today and with those expectations set you might just find it enjoyable. The premise of the story is basically a take on 'The Phantom of the Opera' though it's lacking all the elements that make that story a classic worthy of retelling, and leaves us with something that today might simply be considered a slasher film sans gore.

Though the film is rife with corny dialogue and less than inspiring acting, seeing the old sets in the scenery of vintage films juxtaposed against the sets being demolished is a great device that is used rather effectively in the film.

The Bottom Line
This film is probably best reserved for film buffs and possibly film students.

'The Phantom Of Hollywood' is available through the Warner Archive at WBShop.com